Cashout German Pension: Get Your Money Back

If you're leaving Germany permanently, you may be able to cash out your German pension contributions instead of waiting until retirement age.

What Does "Cashout" Mean?

Cashing out (Beitragserstattung) means receiving a lump-sum payment of your pension contributions instead of monthly pension payments in the future.

Who Can Cash Out?

You can cash out your German pension if:

1. Non-EU/EEA citizen (excluding Switzerland & UK)
2. Living outside Germany & EEA
3. 24 months passed since last contribution
4. No voluntary contribution option available

How Much Can You Cash Out?

You receive only your employee contributions back:

• 2023+: 9.3% of your gross monthly salary
• Employer contributions: NOT refundable
• No interest or investment returns

Calculation example:

• Gross monthly salary: €3,000
• Your contribution: €279/month
• Worked 36 months: €10,044 total cashout

Cashout vs. Waiting for Pension

Cashout Benefits:

✓ Immediate access to money
✓ No waiting until retirement
✓ Control over your money
✓ Can invest elsewhere

Cashout Drawbacks:

✗ Only get back contributions (no growth)
✗ Lose German pension rights
✗ Can't count periods toward future pension

Keeping Pension Benefits:

✓ Monthly payments in retirement
✓ Potential investment growth
✓ Survivor benefits

✗ Must wait until retirement age
✗ Need 5+ years for minimal pension
✗ Monthly amount may be small

How to Cash Out

Step 1: Verify Eligibility

Check if you meet all requirements.

Step 2: Wait 24 Months

You must wait 2 years after your last contribution.

Step 3: Gather Documents

• Passport
• Deregistration certificate
• Social security card
• Bank details

Step 4: Complete Forms

Fill out "Antrag auf Beitragserstattung"

Step 5: Submit Application

Send to Deutsche Rentenversicherung

Step 6: Receive Payment

3-6 months processing, then bank transfer

Tax Implications

The cashout may be taxable in:

• Germany (withholding tax possible)
• Your current country of residence

Consult a tax advisor for your specific situation.

What Happens to Employer Contributions?

Employer contributions (also 9.3%) stay with the German pension system. You cannot cash out these amounts.

Can You Cash Out Partially?

No. It's all-or-nothing. You cash out all eligible periods or none.

Alternative: Voluntary Contributions

If you're from a country with a social security agreement and plan to return to work in a treaty country, voluntary contributions might be better than cashing out.

Ready to cash out your German pension? Start your eligibility check now!